EVANGELINE

Producer/director Edwin Carewe, the man who invited Dolores del Río to Hollywood, created a perfect project for her as “Evangeline” in this beautifully photographed film based on Longfellow’s beloved, tragic poem about loss of love and home. Caught in the middle of the 18th century wars between England and France, the French Acadians of Nova Scotia are ordered to leave their homeland. Scattered to the winds, some make their way to Bayou Teche, Louisiana, where they will eventually be known as “Cajuns.” Courted by the wealthy suitor Baptiste, Evangeline still yearns for Gabriel, who disappeared during the long journey. She travels throughout the country in search of her one true love and is finally reunited with him in a Philadelphia almshouse where she tends to the physical and emotional needs of the lost and forgotten. Dolores del Río’s performance as the tragic heroine is outstanding. -- Chale Nafus